Guam is an American territory in the South Pacific and a favorite vacation spot of Japanese tourists, thanks to its duty-free shopping. Though indigenous Chamorro culture has been diluted by the island's international presence, efforts are underway to preserve tradition and travelers can still find villages rich in local character. Guam is usually a safe destination, but you'll need to consider a few factors before making the journey.

Crime

Generally speaking, Guam is safe and both the Australian and Canadian governments advise travelers need to only exercise normal precautions when visiting. However, methamphetamine-related crime and burglaries in particular, have been on the rise, according to Lonely Planet. Always keep your car locked and free of valuables, and don't park in dark areas. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, keep an eye on your bags and never walk alone in dark, deserted areas.

Insect-Carried Diseases

Visitors to Guam have some risk of contracting disease through mosquito bites, including malaria, chikungunya, dengue fever and filariasis, according to the Centers for Disease Control. To avoid mosquito bites, wear an insect repellent containing DEET and burn insect coils to keep bugs away when relaxing outdoors. For additional protection, sleep under a mosquito net treated with permethrin, and wear shirts with long sleeves and full-length pants.

Weather

Most of the time, the weather in Guam is warm and sunny. However, the island is hit by typhoons every few years and winds may reach speeds of more than 180 MPH, causing death and devastation. To stay safe, check weather reports regularly and follow the commands of local authorities in the event of a storm. On nice days, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat and frequently apply sunblock.

Political Issues

As Guam is a United States territory, it can attract the attention of countries with anti-American sentiment. North Korea has threatened to attack Guam due to its ties with the U.S. and its location near the Asian mainland. Guam is also home to a large American military base, which provides protection, but may also be a target. Before visiting, research the current situation thoroughly and consider delaying travel if necessary, waiting until tensions have cooled.

Health Care

Medical care is available in Guam and the Guam Memorial Hospital (gmha.org) is the primary place for treatment, according to MD Travel Health. However, the hospital may be limited in what it can offer, and serious problems are likely to require evacuation to a place with better facilities. To avoid bills running into the tens of thousands of dollars, make sure your insurance provides coverage in Guam and if necessary, purchase a travel policy to cover the expense of evacuation.

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About the Author

Hallie Engel is a food and lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in several international publications. She served as a restaurant critic for "Time Out Abu Dhabi" and "Time Out Amsterdam" and has also written about food culture in the United Arab Emirates for "M Magazine." She holds a bachelor's degree in communications and film studies from University of Amsterdam.